EDA News

The European Defence Agency (EDA) and the EU Military Staff (EUMS) have begun consultations with Member States for the next Coordinated Annual Review on Defence (CARD), the EU’s ‘State of the Union’ in defence. The report, due next year, will provide a detailed overview of Member States’ goals, plans and projects. It will highlight trends in spending and planning, and identify gaps and collaborative defence initiatives with the greatest potential impact. It aims to inform decision-making at both national and EU levels. 

Europe’s defence posture relies on striking a careful balance: meeting urgent operational needs while pursuing long-term strategic objectives. 

Belgium was the first of the 27 Member States to be consulted. During the discussions, EDA analysed Belgium’s plans and priorities and discussed the Belgian perspective within the wider European context. These consultations offer first-hand insights into how national strategies contribute to EU defence and provide a platform to explore collaboration that avoids duplication and strengthens interoperability – the ability of armed forces, systems, equipment and technologies to work together.  

Ultimately, CARD helps Member States bring coherence to the EU defence landscape and improve the efficiency of defence spending. 

Ready for November 2026  

The next consultation will take place this week in Ireland, and with all other Member States over the coming months.  

Once complete, the findings will be compiled by next May. Political recommendations will serve as a reference for current and future defence initiatives and inform decisions on joint investment priorities, including Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) projects. 

This is the fourth CARD cycle, building on previous reviews to track trends and propose concrete measures for cooperation. Updated assessment criteria will help identify opportunities for joint initiatives addressing short-, mid- and long-term military needs. Final recommendations will be submitted in the CARD report to the EDA Steering Board in November 2026. 

EDA’s wider role 

EDA supports its 27 Member States in improving their defence capabilities through European cooperation. Acting as an enabler and facilitator for Ministries of Defence willing to engage in collaborative capability projects, the Agency serves as the hub for European defence cooperation with expertise and networks covering the whole spectrum of defence capabilities. 

Member States use EDA as an intergovernmental expert platform where their collaborative projects are supported, facilitated, and implemented. For more details, please see www.eda.europa.eu 

The European Defence Agency (EDA) has published its annual Defence Data report for 2024-2025, detailing defence spending from all 27 EU Member States.  In 2024, defence expenditure by the 27 EU Member States reached an unprecedented €343 billion — a 19% rise on 2023 — bringing spending to 1.9% of GDP. The increase, driven largely by record levels of equipment procurement and rising investment in research and development, reflects Member States’ determination to strengthen Europe’s military capabilities in response to the evolving security environment.  

For the full document, please see here

For the first time, defence investment exceeded €100 billion, accounting for 31% of total expenditure, the highest share recorded by EDA since data collection began. While spending continues to grow and is forecast to climb further in 2025, it remains below the levels of military powers such as the United States — underlining the need for sustained investment and greater collaboration to maximise efficiency and ensure interoperability across the EU’s armed forces. 

Head of EDA, HRVP Kaja Kallas, said: "Europe is spending record amounts on defence to keep our people safe, and we will not stop there. This investment will be funnelled into everything from research and development to the joint procurement and production of essential defence components. The European Union is pulling every financial and political lever we have to support our Member States and European companies in this effort. Defence today is not a nice-to-have but fundamental for the protection of our citizens. This must be the era of European defence."

EDA Chief Executive André Denk said: “It is encouraging to see EU Member States taking their defence spending to record levels. Meeting the new NATO target of 3.5% of GDP will require even more effort, spending a total of more than €630 billion a year. Yet we must also cooperate closely, find economies of scale and increase interoperability. EDA stands more ready than ever to support Member States in this endeavour." 

   2025 Forecast:

• EU defence spending is projected to reach €381 billion in 2025 (vs €343 billion in 2024)
• Bloc’s spending is seen at 2.1% of GDP in 2025, exceeding the previous NATO 2% target for the first time since EDA records began
• Defence investment is set to reach close to €130 billion in 2025 (vs €106 billion in 2024)
• Research and Development (R&D) spending may increase to €17 billion in 2025 (vs €13 billion in 2024) 

2024 European Defence Spending – Key Findings:

• In 2024, 25 Member States increased their defence spending in real terms, one more than in 2023, while only two countries slightly decreased defence spending. Sixteen Member States raised their expenditure by more than 10%, compared to eleven in 2023.  
• In 2024, the total defence expenditure per active military personnel reached a record €249,000, up from €211,000 in 2023 and significantly more than the €138,000 spent in 2014. 
• In 2024, 24 Member States met the 20% benchmark on defence investment, up from 20 in 2023, an accelerating trend as countries direct an increasingly larger share of their expenditure to investments.
• Defence equipment procurement rose by 39% from 2023 to €88 billion in 2024, with spending in 2025 projected to exceed €100 billion. The upward trend is expected to continue as several Member States have announced further budget increases and signed major procurement deals in 2024.
• Equipment procurement represents more than 80% of defence investment. While short-term needs have led Member States to prioritise existing solutions, R&D investment has grown.
• A significant rise in R&D spending is essential to develop next-generation capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign markets. Defence cooperation offers benefits such as economies of scale, lower costs, improved interoperability, and reduced duplication.
• In 2024, defence R&D expenditure increased. The 20% rise in 2024 represents a notable acceleration compared to the 6% growth recorded in 2023. Defence R&D spending reached €13 billion in 2024.

EU Ministers of Defence met today, 29 August 2025, in Copenhagen.

Troels Lund Poulsen, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of Denmark, and Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, chaired the meeting, during which Ministers discussed the EU's military support to Ukraine, European defence readiness, and the EU's military missions and operations.

When it comes to European defence readiness, several Ministers recalled the key role of EDA as the established platform for national Ministries of Defence to cooperate on capabilities at EU level.  

In line with its mandate, EDA will continue to support all 27 Member States and adapt its capability expert groups to reflect the new security environment and our common objective to enhance European defence readiness by 2030.

European Defence Agency (EDA) Chief Executive André Denk travelled to Ukraine this week for his first official visit since taking office, aiming to reinforce defence cooperation and gain insight into the country’s wartime innovations.

In Kyiv, Denk met with high-level Ukrainian officials, including Presidential Adviser Alexander Kamyshin, Minister of Strategic Industries Herman Smetanin, Deputy Minister of Strategic Industries Davyd Aloian, Deputy Minister of Defence Sergiy Boyev, Deputy Chief of Defence Brigadier General Andrii Lebedenko. The meetings were organised in coordination with the European Commission and the European External Action Service.

Talks centred around Ukraine’s defence priorities and operational needs.

“I am eager to continue exploring how EDA could further support Ukraine based on our current work strands and the existing framework, and the Administrative Arrangement in place with the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence since 2015", said Denk.

The visit extended beyond the capital, with André Denk visiting several defence production sites and military facilities, including an operational command post in eastern Ukraine.

“I am highly impressed by Ukraine's Armed Forces' determination and courage as well as by all the bright Ukrainians who innovate and work in support of the soldiers on the frontline,” said Denk.

“Ukraine’s expertise with cutting-edge technologies and defence innovation tested directly on the battlefield are redefining modern warfare and are truly invaluable. There are many lessons we can learn, and closer cooperation can and will leverage both Ukraine’s and EU Member States’ defence capabilities,” he added.

In Eastern Ukraine, Denk met with Major General Mykhailo Drapatyi, Commander of the Joint Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (picture below).

On 14 July, Denmark - the EU Member State currently holding the Presidency of the Council of the European Union - announced its donation of satellite communication services to Ukraine via the European Defence Agency.

The donation includes solutions that increase Ukraine’s access to secure and stable satellite-based communications, such as receiver terminals that will contribute to the country’s ability to defend itself. These terminals will ensure robust and secure connectivity, which can be crucial for the conduct of military operations. Secure and stable satellite-based communications solutions remain in high demand by Ukraine.

The framework provided by EDA can help diversify satellite communication service usage over Ukraine. Such a donation contributes to promoting both Ukraine’s and Europe’s technological strategic autonomy and freedom of action in space. Satellites play a crucial role in modern defence today. Other EU countries may be considering similar donations.

Read more: https://www.fmn.dk/da/nyheder/2025/danmark-donerer-satellittjenester-til-ukraines-forsvar-gennem-eus-forsvarsagentur  

EDA’s broader role 

Founded in 2004, the Agency helps foster defence cooperation across Europe. It serves as the central hub for EU countries aiming to develop their defence capabilities together. EDA’s activities span from harmonising requirements and developing operational capabilities to research, technology, innovation, training, and supporting Common Security and Defence Policy operations. The agency also works closely with the European defence industry to strengthen Europe’s technological and industrial base. 

Less than two months since his appointment as EDA Chief Executive, André Denk has begun touring Member States to discuss their respective defence priorities and EDA’s pivotal role in serving Member States’ interests, leveraging defence and capability development cooperation in the European Union.   

Earlier this week, Chief Executive Denk visited Sweden and Italy – where he met with the Ministers of Defence of both countries, as well as top national defence authorities.   

Sweden

In Stockholm, he met with Minister of Defence Pål Jonson and with the Chief of Defence, General Michael Claesson. Denk also visited the Swedish Defence Research Agency (FOI), the Swedish Defence Material Administration (FMV), and the Swedish Armed Forces. Discussions revolved around Sweden’s ongoing priorities and EDA’s concrete support to Member States in innovation, capability development, and joint procurement. 

Italy

In Rome, he met with Minister of Defence Guido Crosetto, National Armaments Director Admiral Giacinto Ottaviani, Chief of Defence General Luciano Portolano, and Deputy Chief of Defence General Del Bene. Discussions focused on reinforcing cooperation in defence, aligning industrial and technological priorities, and advancing European strategic autonomy.  

During his trip to Rome, Denk also presented the results of the first-ever Operational Experimentation (OPEX) campaign dedicated to unmanned systems – i.e. UAVs and UGVs - for cross-domain logistics at the Italian Army's multifunctional experimentation centre, CEPOLISPE. 

EDA's Chief Executive will travel to other Member States in the coming weeks.

General Michael Claesson, Sweden's Chief of Defence

General Carl-Johan Edström, Sweden's Chief of the Defence Staff

Guido Crosetto, Italian Minister of Defence - and his delegation

 

Admiral Giacinto Ottaviani, Italy's National Armaments Director

Main photo: Guido Crosetto, Italy's Defence Minister; Pål Jonson, Sweden's Defence Minister

EDA’s broader role 

Founded in 2004, the Agency helps foster defence cooperation across Europe. It serves as the central hub for EU countries aiming to develop their defence capabilities together. EDA’s activities span from harmonising requirements and developing operational capabilities to research, technology, innovation, training, and supporting Common Security and Defence Policy operations. The agency also works closely with the European defence industry to strengthen Europe’s technological and industrial base.

On 3 July 2025, six European defence companies gathered near Rome to demonstrate unmanned aerial and ground systems as part of the European Defence Agency’s (EDA) first-ever European Defence Innovation Operational Experimentation (OPEX) campaign. The live demonstration took place under the umbrella of the Hub for EU Defence Innovation (HEDI), at the Italian Army’s Multifunctional Experimentation Centre (CEPOLISPE) in Montelibretti, Italy.

Crucially, this marks the first operational experimentation coordinated at EU level. While similar initiatives have taken place nationally, OPEX introduces a new model of cross-border collaboration among Member States.

"Security, warfare, and technology are changing at an accelerating pace. The war in Ukraine reshaped our understanding of defence innovation, compressing years of development into weeks through rapid prototyping, adaptability, and tight collaboration among armed forces, engineers, and civilians. So, defence innovation is no longer optional, nor a long-term ambition,” said André Denk, EDA’s Chief Executive, during the Distinguished Visitors’ Day. “Accelerating innovation from the lab to the field is our ticket to operational relevance.”

The OPEX campaign embodies HEDI’s ambition to bridge the gap between promising innovation and real-world military capability. By testing unmanned aerial and ground systems in realistic operational conditions, OPEX offers a way for Member States, industry and end-users to jointly test, evaluate and refine technologies. That helps to overcome the “valley of death” where innovations often fail to reach operational use.

Unlike traditional demonstrations, OPEX reflects a shift toward experimentation as a strategic tool. It generates critical insights into operational concepts, training requirements and interoperability challenges — supporting long-term defence planning. From autonomous systems and drones to electronic interference platforms, the campaign reflects EDA’s commitment to accelerating the uptake of emerging capabilities.

Weeks of field testing

The campaign unfolded in several phases of increasing complexity, from the evaluation of individual systems to fully integrated, cross-domain operations using unmanned aerial systems (UAVs) and unmanned ground systems (UGVs). The six companies — Portugal’s BEYOND VISION, ALTUS LSA of Greece, Austria’s SCHIEBEL, ALYSIS of Spain, PIAP of Poland and Germany’s ARX ROBOTICS — carried out simulations of coordinated tactical missions, focused on autonomous logistics under conditions closely mirroring real-life scenarios.

The final phase of the campaign tested these systems further in demanding, multi-domain environments, providing insight into how advanced technologies can be integrated into future military operations and force structures.

The Distinguished Visitors’ Day event brought together high-level representatives, including EDA's Denk, Director of CEPOLISPE Brigadier General Pierpaolo Dotoli, Italian National Armaments Director (NAD) Admiral Giacinto Ottaviani, and Italy's Deputy NAD Luisa Riccardi. EDA’s Director for Research, Technology and Innovation, Nathalie Guichard outlined HEDI’s mission to accelerate defence innovation across the EU.

OPEX campaigns will become a multi-annual effort under HEDI. Future editions, hosted by various Member States, will expand in scope and complexity, covering a wider range of emerging technologies. They will feed directly into EU defence planning, helping ensure that innovation is translated more rapidly and effectively into operational capability.

The OPEX support team is a consortium led by French company EXTENSEE. It helped in the design and execution of the OPEX campaign in collaboration with EDA and the Italian authorities.

EDA awarded contracts across six specialised categories, following a competitive procurement process launched in July 2024:

• Low-Cost Attritable UAS – BEYOND VISION (Portugal) 
• Vertical Take-Off and Launch (VTOL) UAS – ALTUS LSA (Greece) 
• Heavy Lift VTOL UAS – SCHIEBEL (Austria) 
• Low-Cost Attritable UGS – ALYSIS (Spain) 
• Medium Wheeled Logistical UGS – PIAP (Poland)
• Medium Tracked Logistical UGS – ARX ROBOTICS (Germany) 

EDA’s broader role 

Founded in 2004, the Agency helps foster defence cooperation across Europe. It serves as the central hub for EU countries aiming to develop their defence capabilities together. EDA’s activities span from harmonising requirements and developing operational capabilities to research, technology, innovation, training, and supporting Common Security and Defence Policy operations. The agency also works closely with the European defence industry to strengthen Europe’s technological and industrial base. 

On 30 June 2025, the European Defence Agency (EDA) signed the contract for the LEO2VLEO project to develop and deploy a constellation of military defence satellites capable of manoeuvring between Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO).

The €10 million contract was signed at the EDA headquarters by Chief Executive André Denk and Jeroen Rotteveel, CEO of ISISPACE, who leads the industrial consortium.  

Co-funded by the Netherlands’ Ministry of Defence and the Austrian Armed Forces, the project will design, develop, build, launch, and operate a constellation of three 16U satellites. The launch is planned within two years, marking a significant leap in European defence space capability.  

Chief Executive Denk said: “LEO2VLEO is not just a demonstration of technology but a testament to our ability to work through multinational cooperation. We are proud to support this pioneering effort that will strengthen the EU’s resilience and readiness in space, an increasingly contested domain.”

ISISPACE CEO Rotteveel said: “It is encouraging to see this project gaining momentum, as it is a crucial step towards developing the space systems necessary for ensuring Europe's safety. Together with our consortium partners, we are confident in our ability to quickly deliver the functionalities required by the Dutch and Austrian Ministries of Defence.”

Earth observation, minimal debris

For EDA and its Capability Technology Area (CapTech) Space, the project represents an achievement in defence research and technology (R&T). It will be the first known European military satellite constellation capable of transitioning between LEO and VLEO – a manoeuvre that enables greater flexibility, higher-resolution imaging, and enhanced responsiveness during crisis operations.

The LEO2VLEO satellites will provide proof of concept and in-orbit demonstration of defence applications, addressing Europe's urgent need for sovereign, rapid-response space assets. Using VLEO offers several strategic advantages, including improved communications, agility, and Earth observation capabilities, while minimising space debris risk.

This novel approach uses off-the-shelf components combined with extensive R&T to accelerate operational readiness. The project also foresees the inclusion of payloads for Earth observation and navigational warfare – both critical in today’s security environment.

EDA’s Hub for EU Defence Innovation (HEDI) supported the initiative through a preliminary study based on its 2023 proof-of-concept framework. This early investment by HEDI has helped pave the way for the current demonstrator phase.

In addition to demonstrating in-orbit performance, the project includes pre-operational capability development, laying the foundation for a future fully operational military satellite system. If successful, LEO2VLEO will set the stage for enhanced autonomy and resilience in European defence missions.

The project brings together a consortium of European innovators, comprising: 

• ISISPACE Group (Lead)  
• Dawn Aerospace Nederland B.V.
• Fantana Defence and Space GmbH
• ASA Astrosysteme GmbH
• Graz University of Technology 
• Beyond Gravity Austria GmbH
• Joanneum Research Forschungsgesellschaft mbH

 

On June 25, the European Commission and the European Defence Agency (EDA) took a step forward in enhancing European defence cooperation by signing a Financial Framework Partnership Agreement (FFPA). This new agreement provides a long-term, stable foundation for working together on defence initiatives, especially in relation to the European Defence Fund (EDF). 

The FFPA simplifies how the Commission and EDA sign annual Contribution Agreements, helping to speed up the process of supporting joint defence projects under the EDF. This creates the basis for a more enduring partnership between the Commission and EDA, closely linked to the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF).

The agreement aims to simplify and accelerate the administrative and financial procedures related to indirect management of EDF projects, allowing resources to be mobilised more efficiently in support of EU strategic autonomy.

More than 40 projects worth around €300 million

Since the EDF was established, the Commission has entrusted EDA with the indirect management of 24 defence projects. With the addition of new projects made possible through this FFPA, that number will rise to over 40 projects with a total value of around €300 million.

This new partnership builds on the strong cooperation that has already developed between the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space (DG DEFIS) and EDA. This framework stabilises and formalises a cooperation process between DG DEFIS and EDA on defence innovation, which further expands the complementarity between the European Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS) and EDA’s Hub for Defence Innovation (HEDI), building on their respective strengths.

DG DEFIS already closely collaborated with EDA for the implementation of EDF projects through annual Contribution Agreements since the launch of EDF in 2021. The FFPA ensures continuity and better coordination for European defence capabilities development.

In parallel with the FFPA, the Contribution Agreement for EDF 2024 calls was approved, further solidifying the operational and financial collaboration between the European Commission and EDA. Together, these agreements provide a clear and streamlined mechanism to manage joint defence projects, making it easier to implement and deliver critical defence capabilities.

André Denk, Chief Executive of the European Defence Agency, said: "Thanks to this new agreement and these new EDF projects, we can help EU Member States develop new defence technologies faster. Working with the European Commission, we can identify the most promising solutions, and, importantly, act as a technology broker – using EDA’s networks and EU funding to support further development." 

Timo Pesonen, Director-general of DG DEFIS, said: "This agreement is more than a formality; it is a strategic enabler. By simplifying our cooperation with EDA, we will accelerate the delivery of innovative, EU-funded defence projects. This partnership is a concrete step towards providing our armed forces with the cutting-edge capabilities they need, faster and more efficiently. We are committed to turning our cooperation into tangible results for Europe's security."   With an increasing number of projects and a deepening partnership, the Commission and EDA recognised the need to simplify how they work together. The FFPA does just that.   It introduces: 

• A standardised annual contribution agreement template that speeds up annual negotiations; 
• Faster EDF grant procedures, with a reduced administrative burden; 
• Better alignment of timelines between DG DEFIS and EDA, helping to ensure smoother delivery of funding to defence actors with a particular attention to grant agreement preparation timeline for directly and indirectly managed projects.

These changes are especially beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which make up a large share of EDF beneficiaries and are key drivers of innovation in the defence sector. 

EU defence officials gathered in Warsaw on June 17-18 for the first conference under the fourth phase of the EU’s flagship defence and sustainable energy initiative, aiming to reduce military dependence on fossil fuels while reinforcing operational resilience.

The two-day event brought together around 140 participants from 25 countries (23 EU Member States, Norway and Serbia) under the Consultation Forum for Sustainable Energy in the Defence and Security Sector (CF SEDSS), managed by the European Defence Agency (EDA) and funded by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Energy (DG ENER). Hosted under the Polish Presidency of the Council of the EU and by Poland’s Ministry of Defence, the conference set the tone for the programme’s next four years, which will run until September 2028.

While the new phase — CF SEDSS IV — formally began in late 2024, the Warsaw conference marked the community’s first full plenary in the new phase, after a decade of steady progress. With the EU targeting climate neutrality by 2050 and proposing a 90% net emissions reduction by 2040, ministries of defence are being urged to take a more proactive role.

“Energy sustainability and defence resilience go hand in hand. Less fossil fuels, smarter energy management, more energy efficiency and stronger critical energy infrastructure contribute to stronger defence,” EDA’s Director of Industry, Synergies and Enablers (ISE), Sean White, told the conference. “A greener, more energy-secure and resilient Europe starts with us.”

Krzysztof Zielski, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces, underlined: “Our task today and in the years ahead is not simply to adapt to change, but to shape the future of defence energy strategy with responsibility and resolve. In doing so we honour our duty not only to our nations, but to the stability of Europe as a whole.” The forum exemplifies the impact of unity between science, industry and defence, he said.

Katarzyna Smyk, Head of European Commission Representation, Poland, also underscored the significance of this initiative, stating: “The energy transition presents a unique opportunity for EU military forces to enhance their capabilities and maintain superiority. Equally important is the necessity of enhanced civil-military cooperation to bolster the resilience of critical energy infrastructure. In this framework, the CF SEDSS remains an excellent platform to contribute to reaching these important results.”

In his keynote speech, Paweł Wronka, Representative of the Chief of the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces said: "The military supports the protection of critical energy infrastructure. We face cyber attacks daily. Energy, as a strategic factor, is vital for the country to operate."

Renewables, digitilsation

Speakers highlighted that energy transition offers critical gains: reducing dependency on fossil fuel imports, improving supply resilience, and mitigating vulnerabilities exposed by Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine. The event also addressed threats to critical infrastructure, including hybrid attacks in European sea basins.

The conference launched a comprehensive work programme including six plenary sessions, energy technology exhibitions, and crisis-response exercises focused on critical infrastructure. Key areas include energy efficiency, renewables, protection of critical energy infrastructure, battery storage, smart buildings, and digitalisation.

Innovative projects are already underway. In the forum’s previous phase, the Symbiosis Project began work on how offshore renewables such as wind farms can co-exist with military activities in the maritime domain — a  model of civil-military cooperation.

The new phase seeks to build on these achievements, leveraging over 50 project ideas and 15 studies generated since the Forum’s launch in 2015. The conference also served to reinvigorate cross-border collaboration after a period of limited in-person engagement. Officials praised the event as a springboard for deeper cooperation and a symbol of continuity amid shifting security dynamics.

More about the CF SEDSS

• Consultation Forum Sustainable Energy
• EDA and EU Commission sign grant for new phase in green defence
• Green fingers: EU defence energy community ends phase with new proposals

European Union Member States have approved 11 new projects under the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) in the sixth and final wave of the initial phase of the framework. These projects, which involve 19 Member States, aim to strengthen defence cooperation and capability development. 

The sixth wave of PESCO projects cover a wide range of needs, from broader strategic areas such as air and missile defence and cyber doctrine to more specific applications such as soldier systems and field medical facilities. Member States are also addressing key shortfalls by introducing unmanned aerial systems, improving interoperability through equipment standardisation, and boosting protection of vital undersea infrastructure. For more details of projects coordinated by Germany, Finland, France and Italy, please see here.  

New projects 

Germany (coordinating Member State) 

• Joint European Electromagnetic Warfare Convergence Initiative (JEEWCI) 
• Substitute for Lead in Infantry Ammunition (SLIA) 
• Common Handheld Optronic Interface (CHOI) 
• Infantry Navigation without GNSS (InfNav without GNSS)
• Future (unmanned) Air-to-Air Refuelling Capability 
• Unmanned Air Transport of Injured Soldiers (UNATIS) 
  
  

France (coordinating Member State) 

• Modular Seabed Vessel (MSV)
• Medical Treatment Facility Role 2 Forward – Capability Development (MTF R2F–CD) 
  
  

Finland (coordinating Member State) 

• Quantum Enablers for Strategic Advantage (QUEST)
  
  

Italy (coordinating Member State) 

• Directed Energy Systems (DES) 
• Next Generation Dismounted Soldier System (NGDSS) 
  
  

More demanding times 

From 2018 to 2025, PESCO has generated a total of 83 collaborative projects spanning the five operational domains of land, maritime, air, space and cyber. Eight have now closed, with 75 still ongoing. The projects have ranged from protecting space assets to monitoring undersea infrastructure. The European Defence Agency (EDA), which is part of the PESCO secretariat, believes the projects encourage a shared, intergovernmental approach to defence planning. All 26 participating Member States have taken part in various initiatives, working together to address capability gaps and fulfil their more binding commitments set out in PESCO. 

Compared to when the framework was first launched in December 2017, the second phase of PESCO (2025–2029) will take place in a much more dynamic and challenging security environment. Given Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine, there is now an urgent need to close capability gaps, especially those that cannot be met by a single country alone. In response to this, in November 2024, Ministers of Defence signed four letters of intent to work together on key capability areas highlighted in the most recent Coordinated Annual Review on Defence (CARD) report. CARD gives an overview of Member States’ defence plans and serves as a basis for deciding potential joint projects.  

The letters of intent focused on: Integrated Air and Missile Defence, Electronic Warfare, Loitering Munitions, and the European Combat Vessel. These initiatives, particularly those with a long-term focus, are strong candidates to become future PESCO projects. 

Existing tools such as the European Defence Fund (EDF), which co-finances multinational defence projects using money from the EU’s long-term budget, will continue to support PESCO projects, while discussions held at the European Council of EU leaders in February 2025 have built political momentum and given clearer direction to the EU’s defence ambitions. 

Looking ahead, the new projects also consider future defence challenges, such as the impact of quantum technologies and ensuring reliable access to ammunition. 

About PESCO 

The Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) is a legally binding initiative within the European Union's Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). It aims to deepen defence cooperation among participating EU Member States, enhancing the EU's capacity to act as a security provider. All Member States except Malta are part of PESCO. 

Participation in PESCO is voluntary but entails binding commitments, including increasing defence spending, harmonising requirements, and pooling resources in defence equipment acquisition, research, and utilisation. EDA, along with the European External Action Service (EEAS) and the EU Military Staff (EUMS), is part of the PESCO secretariat, facilitating project implementation and ensuring coherence with other EU defence initiatives.  

Through collaborative projects, PESCO seeks to enhance interoperability and effectiveness of forces, strengthen Europe’s industrial and technological base, and ultimately increase the overall security of European citizens.  

At the EDA Steering Board held in Brussels today, EU Ministers of Defence endorsed the European Defence Agency’s synthesis of projects, actions and proposals for short-term joint acquisitions of defence equipment, in line with the initial list of priority areas set out in the European Council (EUCO) conclusions of 6 March 2025 and the White Paper on European Defence Readiness 2030.  

The EDA synthesis underscores the urgent need to enhance readiness and address critical capability gaps and shortfalls. It offers new lines of actions aligned with the agreed priorities, including restoring superiority in the air domain, strengthening land forces, and enhancing strategic enablers. It also emphasises that long term capability development should not be neglected. 

Ministers provided strategic guidance on how and where EDA can best support Member States in taking the work forward, in the short term and with a view to longer-term capability development projects. This includes more systematic aggregation of demand, harmonisation of requirements, and joint procurement. 

This was the first EDA Ministerial Steering Board chaired by the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, in her capacity as Head of the European Defence Agency. It also marked the first Steering Board of André Denk as the Agency’s new Chief Executive. 

French Touch, a team of innovators and military personnel from France, won first place on 15 May at the European Defence Innovation Days’ first ‘Makeathon,’ a competition for unmanned ground vehicles. The winners were awarded €10,000 in prize money. 

The competition, organised by the European Defence Agency (EDA) with support from the Polish Ministry of Defence, was structured to include a spending cap of €25,000 and a weight limit of 75kg on each robot’s development. The competition aims to foster cooperation, cross-border knowledge sharing and to cultivate a mindset of continuous innovation.  

The Makeathon focused on three main tasks: logistics, object recognition, and chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) sample collection. Judges tested the teams on their technical performance and autonomy around a course set out in a field next to the European Defence Innovation Days’ exhibition centre in Krakow, Poland. Points were awarded based on task completion. Tasks included monitoring a simulated gas leak and testing water quality, and correctly identifying military targets. 

"You built machines, yes. But you also built bridges between military and civilian worlds," said Nathalie Guichard, EDA's Director of Research, Technology and Innovation, as she presented the prize.

French Touch developed a robot over two months using in-house design and manufacturing. Like all of the teams, the ground vehicle included a robotic arm, sensors and a camera for AI recognition. The team, which included members from French military AI specialists AMIAD, French procurement agency DGA, and the navy and air force, built the system from scratch. They used CNC-machined aluminium parts for the red, white, and blue robot, weighing under 50 kg. It was powered by four 1,000-watt motors and used for block delivery and water pH analysis. 

Poland’s Impuls team came second with a 38 kg rover made from polyamide composites. Built by students from the Kielce University of Technology, the robot used cameras and AI for semi-autonomous operation. The team focused on improving coordination and machine control. 

 

Third place went to another Polish team, the Legendary Rover Team, affiliated with Rzeszow University of Technology. Known for participating in Mars rover contests, the team upgraded its previous design with a new manipulator arm, wheel system and an electric drive.  

Dutch team DykstrAV, supported by robotics company Avular and formed by students from multiple universities, placed fourth. Their robot featured a modular design with a black-box electronic unit. Despite early navigation issues, the robot completed two of the three tasks using a mix of autonomous functions and manual control. 

Ukraine continues to prioritise rapid innovation on the battlefield and is ready to share further knowledge with the European Union, Deputy Defence Minister Valerii Churkin told attendees at the European Defence Innovation Days event in Poland on 14 May 2025. 

“To innovate fast, you have to be as close as possible to the frontline,” Churkin said at the start of the three-day event in Krakow. “So that's why we're asking you to join Ukraine, come to Ukraine, develop with Ukrainian companies, establish joint ventures.” Twelve Ukrainian companies were among the nearly 90 exhibitors that filled the hall at the European Defence Innovation Days. 

Newly appointed EDA Chief Executive André Denk opened the event by saying that the European Defence Innovation Days is not just a conference but a platform to “connect and match bold ideas with bold action.” 

Since 2014, and especially after Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, Ukraine’s Armed Forces have seen engineers, software developers, and business analysts join their ranks. These professionals have helped foster a bottom-up innovation culture, with most combat brigades now operating their own workshops to design and produce battlefield solutions. 

“What accelerates innovation is the existential threat. When your life depends on it, you develop so much faster,” Churkin said. Ukrainian units have established direct links between the front line and engineers, enabling faster prototyping and iteration of military technologies.  

To coordinate this rapid development, Ukraine has launched digital platforms such as Iron Bench, which connect private sector developers with military end-users. These systems provide near-instant feedback on battlefield tools and tactics, encouraging agile development. 

However, challenges persist. Chief among them is standardisation. Ukrainian forces employ a patchwork of Western and domestic technologies, which often lack compatibility in terms of frequency, command protocols, and user interfaces. 

“We’re now working on unified interfaces and protocols for drones and other systems to ensure our integration,” Churkin said. 

Senior European officials, defence experts, and industry representatives gathered in Kraków on 14 May for the European Defence Innovation Days. Drawing over 1,000 delegates from across Europe, the biannual forum is an initiative of the European Defence Agency (EDA), with support from the Polish Presidency of the Council of the EU in this third edition. Attendees also included military personnel, as well as researchers and investors from across Europe. 

Newly appointed EDA Chief Executive André Denk opened the three-day gathering by stressing that the European Defence Innovation Days was not just a conference but a platform to “connect and match bold ideas with bold action.” 

“In an era of great power competition and rapid technological advances — where speed often means strategic advantage — we cannot afford to fall behind,” Denk said. “The reason we are gathered here is one: to accelerate capability-driven innovation, ensuring that the best ideas don’t get stuck in the lab, but are translated into capabilities,” he said. 

The defence community must break down silos, connect the military with innovators, bridge the gap between the public and private sectors, cultivate a defence innovation mindset, and inspire cross-generational collaboration, delegates said. 

“We need to adapt to the changing environment,” said Marcin Gorka, Director of the Department of Innovation at Poland’s Ministry of National Defence. “The way we are developing capabilities ... is very static. We need to be able to change from talking about our specific requirements to talking about the operational challenges we need to address.” 

The event showcased Ukraine as a case study in rapid innovation under extreme conditions, with the participation in Krakow of Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Defence Valerii Churkin.  

Ukraine's advantage has not just been in the technology it has reduced, but in its ability to regularly outpace Russia in the innovation cycle, said Kaja Kallas, Head of the European Defence Agency, in her role as High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. “Ukraine's experience underlines what you can do when you get everyone working together,” Kallas said during a video message to the conference. 

The event also aims to underscore EDA’s own role in fostering innovation. HEDI — the Hub for EU Defence Innovation — is the Agency’s platform to ensure ideas can become deployable capabilities. The European Defence Innovation Days features a live exhibition with almost 90 stands. Highlights include mock-ups of soon-to-launch satellites and Ukrainian combat robotics. There are two new features this year: a competition known as a makethon for Unmanned Ground Vehicles, and a start-up pitching competition, offering €10,000 and €15,000 prizes, respectively. 

EU Member States have appointed today General André Denk as the new Chief Executive of the European Defence Agency (EDA), upon recommendation of the Head of the European Defence Agency / High-Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas. André Denk’s mandate will officially start on 16 May 2025. 

With German Major General Denk’s appointment, it is the first time in EDA’s history that a high-ranking military official will guide and manage the Agency.

“I am glad to appoint General André Denk as the new Chief Executive of the European Defence Agency. He brings a wealth of operational experience and a deep understanding of Europe’s defence needs. His leadership is a real asset, and I look forward to our work together. With war at our borders and hybrid threats across the Union, the EDA’s work to develop joint military capabilities and boost innovation in the defence sector has never been more important. Under General Denk's leadership, the Agency will play a key role in ensuring Europe’s readiness for the challenges ahead,” said Kaja Kallas.

“The European Defence Agency is uniquely positioned to support Member States across the entire capability development cycle, and beyond. The Agency brings together the expertise, networks and insight needed to strengthen military cooperation, innovate and support Europe’s defence industry. I am both honoured and energised by my appointment and the challenges ahead. I look forward to working for the shared interests of our Member States and our Union — now more vital than ever,” said André Denk.

André Denk has been Deputy Chief Executive of the European Defence Agency since February 2023. In this role, he deputised for the previous Chief Executive on all matters of political significance and led EDA’s efforts on joint procurement for 155mm ammunition in support of Ukraine and/or for the replenishment of Member States’ stocks. 

Before joining EDA, he was Director Logistics of the EU Military Staff and was previously commander of the Joint School of Logistics in Germany.   
 
Throughout his military career, he undertook many international deployments under European Union, United Nations and NATO mandates - including in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Afghanistan, and as chief of staff of the EU Training Mission in Mali. 
 
Born in Rotthalmünster, Germany, in 1967, General Denk joined the German armed forces in 1986. He holds a diploma in mechanical engineering and in addition, graduated from the German Command and General Staff College as well as from the French General Staff College.

In addition to German, he is fluent in English, French, Serbian and Croatian.  
 
See full CV. 

Background

The European Defence Agency is composed of all 27 Member States of the European Union.

It was established through a Council Joint Action (2004/551/CFSP) on 12 July 2004. This action formalised the Agency's creation and its mandate to support EU Member States in developing their military capabilities. The Lisbon Treaty later enshrined the EDA's role within the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). 

EDA is the only European Agency whose Steering Board meet at Ministerial level. Its Steering Board, composed of all 27 Ministers of Defence, meets twice per year and is chaired by the Head of the European Defence Agency / HRVP Kaja Kallas. 

EDA saw its role and core missions refined and consolidated on the occasion of its long-term review. It acts as the intergovernmental defence nexus at EU level. 

As part of preparations for the Operational Experimentation (OPEX) campaign in Rome in June and July 2025, the European Defence Agency has carried out a series of system acceptance tests to assess the readiness of unmanned aerial and ground systems. 

The OPEX campaign, hosted by the Italian Army, provides a platform to deploy autonomous systems in realistic operational settings. It focuses on testing advanced unmanned aerial and ground systems in field-like conditions, helping to accelerate their integration into future EU defence capabilities. Before taking part, however, each system must first demonstrate compliance with clearly defined technical, reliability, operational and safety standards. 

That is why over the past weeks, EDA experts travelled across the European Union to evaluate the proposed solutions of six companies involved in the project: Beyond Vision from Portugal, ALTUS LSA from Greece, Schiebel from Austria, Alisys from Spain, Sieć Badawcza Łukasiewicz PIAP from Poland, and ARX Robotics from Germany. 

These tests represented a milestone in the campaign, ensuring that the selected systems are prepared to support the development and validation of future autonomous solutions for European defence logistics.    

HEDI puts innovation to the test

Beyond its technical objectives, the OPEX Campaign is designed to serve as a strategic enabler for the rapid adoption of emerging technologies across the EU defence landscape.

EDA’s Hub for European Defence Innovation (HEDI) is bringing together industry innovators, operational end-users, and experts in an immersive, scenario-based environment, introducing a new EU-wide tool that accelerates the delivery of capabilities quickly, playing a role in making innovation frameworks operational and sharpening the technological edge of European defence.  

About EDA

EDA supports its 27 Member States in improving their defence capabilities through European cooperation. Acting as an enabler and facilitator for Ministries of Defence willing to engage in collaborative capability projects, the Agency has become the ‘hub’ for European defence cooperation, with expertise and networks that span the entire spectrum of defence technologies.     

Latvia’s Minister of Defence Andris Sprūds visited the European Defence Agency on 10 April 2025.

On this occasion, the Minister met with EDA’s Deputy Chief Executive André Denk who provided him with an updated overview of the most relevant work strands of the agency in the fields of capability development and prioritisation, defence innovation, EDTIB engagement, and support to Ukraine.
 
EDA’s Deputy Chief Executive also commended Latvia for the country’s excellent cooperation and involvement in key EDA’s activities, including the signing of three Letters of Intent to join forces with other EU nations on key military projects – ie. Integrated air and missile defence; electronic warfare; loitering munitions. 
 

The Incubation Forum for Circular Economy in European Defence (IF CEED) selected three projects to integrate circularity in defence. Proofs of concept or similar tangible results will be delivered within the next 15 months in the fields of critical raw materials, textiles, and eco-management.  

The three projects will receive a combined funding of approximately €800,000. They were evaluated based on criteria including innovation, viability, and alignment with the objectives of IF CEED and the scope of the call for proposals.  

Run by the European Defence Agency (EDA) to make the defence sector more sustainable, IF CEED is funded by the European Commission to bring together experts from the military, industry, and universities to develop projects that reduce waste, recycle materials, and use resources more efficiently in defence. Its goal is to make defence supply chains greener and less dependent on outside resources, focusing on areas like raw materials, textiles, and eco-friendly management.  

Three projects: MICRAM, REGEN and CEDSEMAS  

The first project, known as MICRAM, aims to identify suitable electronic waste from which materials can be extracted using a hydrometallurgical process. The recycled critical raw materials are transformed into advanced materials such as aerogels and films. These form the basis for tactical clothing, stealth systems, and shelters, while also providing microwave radiation shielding.  

The recovery of critical raw materials such as nickel, and their transformation into advanced textile materials supports the development of stealth technologies, minimising detection risks for military assets such as communication systems or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV). These shielding materials also protect personnel’s health and extend the lifespan of electronic systems.  

This project brings together AITEX and FECSA of Spain, Italy’s Tor Vergata University of Rome, and Łukasiewicz – Institute of Non-Ferrous Metals of Poland.  
 

The second project, known as REGEN, aims to recycle the soft aramid layer from end-of-life body armour and turn it into new fibres for making ballistic vests using a disruptive solvent-based technology. It focuses on safely removing harmful coatings and using recycled and virgin fibres to create high-quality protective fabrics.  

Recycling aramid fibres reduces reliance on imported materials for ballistic protection, strengthening the resilience of defence supply chains and lowering environmental impact. It also supports sustainability and could lead to cost savings over time.  

This project brings together FECSA and AITEX of Spain, and Uplift360, the Institute of Science and Technology, and LIST, all from Luxembourg.  


The third project, known as CEDSEMAS, is a program designed to help the defence sector to manage its environmental impact. It aims to create tools and training for military personnel, setting up an electronic platform for collaboration, and implementing a coaching program to integrate eco-management and audit schemes into military installations.  

Smarter resources use reduces environmental harm, helps armed forces comply with sustainability standards, therefore improving resource management, and contributing to greater operational efficiency.  

This project brings together CRES of Greece and AEOLIKI of Cyprus

About EDA

EDA supports its 27 Member States in improving their defence capabilities through European cooperation. Acting as an enabler and facilitator for Ministries of Defence willing to engage in collaborative capability projects, the Agency has become the ‘hub’ for European defence cooperation, with expertise and networks that span the entire spectrum of defence technologies.  

 

Additive Manufacturing —commonly known as 3D printing—is a process that creates three-dimensional objects by depositing materials layer by layer from a digital model. And it is no longer science fiction. From manufacturing spare parts on site where the parts are needed to reverse engineering and bionic designs, additive manufacturing is already reshaping the defence sector. For sure, additive manufacturing technology has the most game-changing potential for military logistics and this has been recognised by EDA and its contributing member States.   For two days from 8 April 2025, over 400 military, industrial experts and gathered at the 3rd European Military Additive Manufacturing Symposium in Bonn, Germany.  The event was organised by the German Association for Defence Technology – Centre for Studies and Conferences with support from the European Defence Agency (EDA). Key Notes were provided by EDA, AM Machine Manufacturer, Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and from Armed Forces User perspective. The event aimed to foster cooperation by bringing together Armed Forces, Industry, and Academia to address military use cases and to align those with European industrial capabilities and competences. New innovations were presented bringing potentially operational advantage to Armed Forces in future. A manufacturing revolution with military applications

Additive Manufacturing (AM) – a so called Emerging Disruptive Technology (EDT) - allows manufacturing of parts with complex structures, lighter wight and almost no design limitations than those made through traditional methods like milling and drilling. Industrial sectors like automotive, aeronautics and medical exploring for some time the advantages of AM technology. The biggest advantage of AM for military use is the significant reduction of so-called lead time, the time till a needed part has been made available where it is needed. AM technology can be used for on-site production and has a positive impact on the so called “military logistic footprint” and the operational availability of military assets.

“Additive Manufacturing is a prime example of the successful transition of a promising technology from research to military capability development under the umbrella of the European Defence Agency,” said Giuseppe Dello Stritto, Head of the Land and Logistics Unit at EDA.

EDA has already taken significant steps through key initiatives such as the Additive Manufacturing for Logistik Support (AMLS) project, aiming at developing common standards for interoperability among Member States, and the AM Village, designed as a capability workshop that connects military, industry, and academia AM experts to identify the most suitable AM technologies for military use cases and to foster military – industry cooperation. The 3rdedition of AM Village is scheduled to take place in Albacete, Spain, on 16-20 March 2026.

About EDA  EDA supports its 27 Member States in improving their defence capabilities through European cooperation. Acting as an enabler and facilitator for Ministries of Defence willing to engage in collaborative capability projects, the Agency has become the ‘hub’ for European defence cooperation, with expertise and networks that span the entire spectrum of defence technologies.